1997 Chrysler Viper vs. 1971 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1997 Chrysler Viper is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 7,984 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1971 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 630 kg more than 1971 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 462 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chrysler Viper | 1971 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Viper | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7984 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
